Taiwan Military Accelerates Drone Procurement by Redefining Categories

The Taiwanese military is making significant changes to its drone acquisition strategy by planning to categorize military drones as “consumables/munitions” rather than aircraft. This shift aims to expedite the procurement process, allowing for a more efficient response to the pressing need for unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in modern warfare.

The Army Command Headquarters announced the decision on October 2, 2023, emphasizing that drones, similar to munitions, require rapid replacement. This reclassification aligns with practices observed in the United States, Taiwan’s largest arms supplier. Recently, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth unveiled a new policy that classifies certain smaller UAS as consumables, akin to hand grenades, rather than as durable assets.

This new approach allows lower-level commanders in Taiwan’s military to procure smaller drones directly and to authorize their subordinates to operate them. According to reports, this change is expected to streamline the procurement process significantly, enabling more agile and responsive military operations.

Strategic Implications of the Policy Change

Su Tzu-yun, a director at the military-funded Institute for National Defense and Security Research, praised the decision as a step toward enhancing flexibility in drone procurement. He noted that this policy would foster closer collaboration with private drone manufacturers, thereby increasing production rates to meet the military’s growing demands.

The urgency of this move is underscored by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, where the Ukrainian military reportedly produces around 3 million drones annually to bolster its defense against Russian aggression. Su highlighted the critical need for Taiwan to enhance its drone production capabilities, especially considering that only 10 percent of small drones currently reach their intended targets.

The US policy further specifies that Group 1 drones, which weigh up to 9 kg and can fly to altitudes of 365.8 m at speeds up to 100 knots (185.2 kph), will be treated as consumable commodities. Group 2 drones, ranging from 9.5 kg to 25 kg, can reach altitudes of 1,067 m and speeds of up to 250 knots (463 kph).

This strategic rethinking reflects a broader shift within Taiwan’s military, indicating a willingness to adapt and innovate in response to contemporary security challenges. By positioning drone technology as essential to national defense, Taiwan aims to fortify its capabilities against potential threats, particularly from China.

The new classification of drones is expected to not only accelerate procurement but also to enhance operational readiness in a rapidly evolving military landscape. As Taiwan navigates its defense strategies, the focus on drones as consumables will likely play a crucial role in maintaining its defense posture in the region.